Jeffrey “Jeff” MacDonald

Jeffrey “Jeff” MacDonald, age 56, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility. He died in the loving care of his mother, Judy Caldwell, and the dedicated staff of the facility.

Despite being born with Down Syndrome, Jeff easily made acquaintances and eagerly tried new activities. When he was younger, he loved to draw, to dance while listening to music, and to ride his bike all over the neighborhood. He enjoyed swimming, shooting hoops, and downhill skiing; and he competed in these sports over several seasons of the Special Olympics.

Jeff was a lifelong fan of the circus, especially the clowns and elephants. His favorite movies were the original Frankenstein and The Wizard of Oz. Jeff loved Christmas, but what really excited him were birthdays and Halloween when he could dress up as Frankenstein. Especially in his later years, he would wish everyone he met a happy birthday, surprising one woman because it really was her birthday.

Music nearly always surrounded Jeff, one of his many music CDs spinning in the disc player of a 70’s or 80’s pop artist like the Eagles or Michael Jackson. His favorite song, though, was Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

As Jeff aged, he became more nonverbal, but he continued to communicate through gestures like pointing to his lips when he was thirsty for a diet Mountain Dew. He was well-known at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility and in the broader community for his bright smile and friendly handshake, endearing him to long-time acquaintances and strangers alike, often brightening their day and leaving a lasting impression.

Jeff is survived by his mother, Judy Caldwell, who remained a constant presence and advocate throughout his life, and by his father, Davis (Leanne) MacDonald, his stepfather, Dennis Caldwell, his brother, Nathan (Christina) MacDonald; step-sister, Laura (Peter) Gargiulo; uncle, Jerry (Rhonda) Gregg; aunts, Cathy Larson, Jill (Eric) Johnson and Vicky Woods and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norman and Edith Gregg and Howard and Lois MacDonald; and his aunt, Janet Lounds and uncle, Hollis MacDonald.

A celebration of life will take place in Marquette at Bethel Baptist Church on March 30, 2026, with visitation from 10:30 am to Noon and service at Noon. There will be a small family gathering after the service at another location.

He will be remembered by his family, the residents of the care facility, and the medical staff for his friendly demeanor and his resilience. His family extends their gratitude to the staff at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility and to Dr. Kroll for the professional and compassionate care provided during his final years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Marquette County Medical Care Facility Activity Fund, 200 Saginaw Street, Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

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